Director of Financial Control

About the role

With our Top 10 world ranking, a £2bn balance sheet and an ambitious 10-year capital development plan, including our commitment to net zero carbon by 2040 and the next stage of our White City Deep Tech Campus, Imperial is seeking a Director of Financial Control to help ensure a robust financial control framework across the institution.

You will play a central role in the senior Finance team, providing high quality specialist financial services (e.g. Financial Accounting, Tax, Treasury, Insurance) and delivering the key operational financial processes (Purchase to Pay, Order to Cash).

We are looking for a collaborative and values-driven individual with a strong track record of driving financial control in complex organisations.

What you would be doing

• Lead the financial control framework, ensuring compliance and accountability across the University.
• Maintain Financial Regulations, Policies, and the Finance Risk Register.
• Strengthen Imperial’s financial controls, working with Internal Audit.
• Act as the University’s Money Laundering Reporting Officer.
• Ensure alignment of accounting policies with sector standards (SORP).
• Oversee the Annual Report and Financial Statements and manage external audit relationships.
• Set performance targets for finance operations and ensure controlled process improvements.
• Oversee accurate and timely tax return submissions and resolve complex transactional issues.
• Advise on tax, treasury and insurance strategies aligned with institutional risk appetite.
• Lead a high-performing team, manage objectives, and support career development.
• Represent Finance on cross-functional boards and committees.
• Build internal and external networks and deputise for the CFO when required.

What we are looking for

• A qualified accountant with experience in a similar role in a large, complex organisation
• Experience of managing large teams (more than 40 individuals)
• Experience of engaging at a senior level with external auditors
• Up to date accounting knowledge (FRS 102/ HE SORP)
• Financial risk management strategies
• Strong relationship building skills
• Gravitas to influence at all levels, including senior leadership
• Pro-active, energetic and highly responsive with a service mindset
• Independent thinker, able to identify solutions to complex issues
• Able to be assertive when required and retain colleagues trust and respect
• Attention to detail, whilst keeping sight of big picture
• Able to inspire and develop staff to achieve their full potential

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
• Benefit from a sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days’ annual leave and generous pension schemes).
• Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on-site leisure facilities and cycle-to-work scheme.
• Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

Further information

This is a full-time, open ended post in Imperial’s Finance team.

Due to the nature of this role, we will be shortlisting candidates as applications are received. We therefore reserve the right to close this vacancy as soon as a suitable candidate has been appointed. It is therefore advisable that you submit your application as possible to avoid disappointment.

Candidates are required to complete an online application.

If you require any further details about the role, please contact Finance-Development@imperial.ac.uk.

Advert information